Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Terraced Steel Structure Emphasizing Glass Transparency for Water Conservation Education

Authors:
Emily Daybell, Connor Hillman
Terraced Steel Structure Emphasizing Glass Transparency for Water Conservation Education

Project in-detail

A terraced, glass-clad structure designed for transparency and sustainability, the Center emphasizes water conservation education while harmonizing with the unique landscape of the Great Salt Lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
A cantilevered observation deck offers panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake.
02
The building's terraced design mimics the surrounding geological formations.
03
Glass panels selectively maximize natural light while reducing energy consumption.
04
Sustainable materials include recycled steel and locally sourced concrete.
05
Fabric canopies provide outdoor shading and enhance visitor engagement.
The Salt Tower, located at the Great Salt Lake in Utah, represents a significant advancement in architectural design focused on sustainability and education. This project functions as a Center for Global Water Research, addressing the critical issues surrounding water conservation and management in a rapidly changing environment. The design features a tall, vertical structure, making it a prominent landmark within the natural landscape while simultaneously embodying its thematic purpose.

The project integrates a variety of functional spaces, including research laboratories, an observation floor, conference facilities, and public gathering areas. Each level of the Salt Tower serves a distinct purpose, supporting both scientific inquiry and public engagement. The open layout encourages interaction among researchers, educators, and the general public, reinforcing the mission of the facility to promote awareness about water issues.

The unique design of the Salt Tower includes several notable aspects that differentiate it from similar facilities. The use of glass as the primary facade material facilitates transparency, allowing natural light to penetrate interior spaces while providing views of the surrounding environment. This design choice emphasizes a connection between occupants and the landscape, reinforcing the project's educational focus. Additionally, the terraced form of the building mirrors the geological features found in the region, further integrating the structure within its context.

Moreover, the Salt Tower incorporates advanced environmental design strategies, such as passive cooling and water conservation techniques, contributing to its sustainability goals. The vertical orientation not only serves aesthetic purposes but also offers unique benefits in terms of energy efficiency and minimal land disruption. The rooftop observation level encourages visitors to engage with the landscape, while the fabric canopies at ground level create shaded outdoor spaces for social interaction.

The Salt Tower stands as a valuable addition to the architectural identity of Utah, providing a space dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing water-related issues. Its innovative architectural designs, strategic material choices, and commitment to sustainability present a blueprint for future projects aiming to marry functionality with ecological responsibility.

To delve deeper into the technical aspects of the Salt Tower project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that outline these thoughtful design approaches.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy